They say these items will help ensure the safety of caregivers working on the front lines, as well as their patients. At this time, no food donations are being accepted.

To facilitate donations, Community Health Network has established a website to connect the community and citywide drop-off locations to collect items.

“The gracious outpouring from the public to donate or manufacture PPE is truly heartfelt,” Community Health Network Vice President of Business Development Wendy Horn said in a statement. “During critical times, it’s reassuring to know we have partners in the community who are willing to help in supporting our mission of putting patients first.”

IU Health is making a similar call-out for items and is expressing its gratitude to the community.

The health organization is in need of industrial N95 and N99 masks; facial and eye protection; hand sanitizer with 70% alcohol content and disinfectants.

What about homemade masks?

Across the nation, individuals are trying to fill hospital supply gaps by sewing masks and donating them.

Both Community Health Network and IU Health will accept the homemade items, but stress that they will only be used when there are no other options. All donations will be assessed before being used.

When asked why, both health networks shared the following statement about the effectiveness of homemade masks from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

“In settings where facemasks are not available, healthcare personnel might use homemade masks (e.g., bandanna, scarf) for care of patients with COVID-19 as a last resort. However, homemade masks are not considered PPE, since their capability to protect healthcare personnel is unknown. Caution should be exercised when considering this option. Homemade masks should ideally be used in combination with a face shield that covers the entire front (that extends to the chin or below) and sides of the face.”

But hospitals, aware of the crisis they're facing, are accepting masks. To aid people making masks, Community Health Network has provided guidelines on how to properly make them.

For a full breakdown of material, print and size requirements, visit eCommunity.com/givePPE. The site also includes example photos for local mask makers.

Where can I donate?

Those wishing to donate to Community Health should call 317-355-5599 or email givePPE@eCommunity.com.